User manual ART TUBE PAC

[. . . ] TUBE PAC PROFESSIONAL TUBE PREAMPLIFIER/COMPRESSOR USER'S GUIDE TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction Registration Features Overview Setting Up Unpacking AC Power Hookup Audio Connections Installation Safety Precautions Powering Up Front Panel Controls and Indicators Gain Control Gain Switch Phantom Power Switch Tube Drive/ Gain Reduction Display Threshold Control Slope Switch Speed Switch Phase Switch Output Level Control Bypass Switch Rear Panel Connections Power Switch Input Output Applications Tube Replacement Specifications On-line Information Warranty Information Service Information 2 2 3 4 5 5 5 5 5 6 6 6 6 7 7 8 8 9 9 9 10 10 11 11 11 11 12 13 14 15 16 16 131-5004-101 1 Introduction Thank you for purchasing Applied Research and Technology's Tube PAC. You've undoubtably noticed that the Tube PAC is as cool sounding as it looks. After getting familiar with the Tube PAC, you'll realize what a great investment you've just made. Anywhere you need level adjustments (gain or attenuation), and anywhere you need compression - you'll be using the Tube PAC. [. . . ] The first LED is labeled "Cln". The tube is producing a clean output when this LED is lit. The next two LEDs are labeled "warm. " This is the optimal operating range for the Tube PAC. At this level, the tube is producing an output signal which most would term "warm" (Whatever you would like to call it is fine - simmering, toasty, etc. ) You'll find the output signal has an enhanced bottom to low mid quality with smooth high frequency detail. The last LED is labeled "Clip. " This LED will light approximately 6dB before audible distortion occurs. The unique design of the Tube PAC allows the tube to distort well before any other gain stage. When a tube goes into distortion it is a gradual process and tends to sound pleasing for a range before it turns into a distortion box. After some use you'll find the "sweet spot" of the Tube PAC is with this light flashing fairly regularly. You may find a "clipped" level is suitable for some applications. Note: Use the Tube Character Array to aid in setting the Input Level Control. Threshold Control The Threshold control sets the point at which the compressor circuit will act on the input signal. Turning this control counterclockwise lowers the threshold (adding more compression to a signal). Turning this control clockwise raises the threshold. Setting the Threshold control is dependent on the Gain control. 8 The easiest way to set the threshold control is to start with the control fully clockwise. After setting the Gain control, slowly turn the Threshold control counter-clockwise (lowering threshold) until you see the yellow (0dB) Threshold LED light. Now adjust the control (either lower or higher) until you have the amount of compression you desire. Use the Gain Reduction meter as a visual guide to the amount of compression applied. Slope Switch In its "out" position, the Tube PAC's compression ratio is an active 2. 3:1 ratio. This means that for every 2. 3dB over the threshold the input signal rises, the compressor's output will change by 1dB. This is a very mild and musical compression ratio which is ideal for smoothing all types of signals. In its "in" position, the compression ratio is greater than 6:1. This is typically called "soft limiting" as it allows only a 1dB change in signal level for any signal reaching over 6dB over the set threshold. [. . . ] A R T will, without charge, repair or replace, at its option, defective product or component parts upon prepaid delivery to the factory service department or an authorized service center, accompanied by proof of purchase date in the form of a valid sales receipt. EXCLUSIONS: This warranty does not apply in the event of misuse or abuse of the product or as a result of unauthorized alterations or repairs. This warranty is void if the serial number is altered, defaced or removed. A R T reserves the right to make changes in design and make additions or improvements upon this product without any obligation to install the same on products previously manufactured. [. . . ]